I have been working as a qualified Speech and Language Therapist for 22 years. I graduated with a BSc Honours degree in Speech and Language Therapy from the University of Wales Institute Cardiff in June 2000. In the summer of 2014, I was delighted to be awarded the Allied Health Professionals Practice Award from Birmingham City University. I am a registered member of the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT’s), and the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). This means I keep up to date with new practice developments and changes within the profession.

My career began in South Warwickshire before I specialised and focused my work within the Solihull area of the West Midlands in an autism assessment and diagnostic service. Following on from this, I was able to use my skills in a management capacity in the NHS Trust. I have continued to develop my specialism in the field of Autism and neuro developmental difficulties/differences for 20 years, both within the NHS and independently within multi-disciplinary teams. I have extensive assessment experience and can contribute to the assessment, diagnosis, and support for children and adults presenting with Autism (including the PDA profile), Developmental Language Disorder, ADHD/ADD, Selective Mutism and reluctant talkers, Dyspraxia, Learning Disability, co morbid mental health needs and sensory processing difficulties/differences.

For the last two years I have provided assessments for children and young people who have been adopted and /or have experienced developmental trauma. I have extensive experience of working with autistic women and girls and I am skilled to understand and explore the more subtle and less obvious features.  I am trained to administer the ADOS-2 assessment and have substantial experience of administering all the ADOS-2 modules both face to face and through tele practice. I feel passionate about offering support to develop a person’s communication skills. The ability to communicate is an essential life skill, and I find it extremely rewarding to help children, and adults to fulfil their potential. 

As a busy mum to two boys, I understand the gains and challenges that being a parent can bring. I tailor my assessments, advice and support with understanding and empathy.